Sundial
Category
Scientific instruments
Date
1683
Materials
Marble, Metal
Measurements
850 x 420 mm; 450 mm (Diameter)500 mm (Diameter)
Collection
Lyme, Cheshire
NT 499777
Summary
A horizontal sundial (heliochronometer) with marble plinth. The plinth has a square base, the stem with swelling curving sides each carved with recessed pod. Small rectangular top with angled corners, to support the sundial. The sundial is set into an octagonal marble top with moulded edges. Metal sundial with roman numerals and rams heads to each side, with a notch taken out of its sloping top. The supporting struts form a central shield with a cross design.
Provenance
The sundial was commissioned by Richard Legh and dated 1683. The picture of the north front by the State Bedroom shows a tall pillar and sundial at the bottom right hand corner. Original baseplate is stored in the metal store, replica on the plinth in the garden